Publication_of_FR-6900-N-29R.pdf

FR-6900-N-29R

Applications are due by 11:59:59 p.m. Eastern Time on 07/24/2025.

Policy Development and Research

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

Addressing the Housing Affordability Crisis Research Grant Program

Table Of Contents FR-6900-N-29R Page 2 of 43

I. BASIC INFORMATION

This NOFO solicits applications for Addressing the

Housing Affordability Crisis Research Grant

Program. Review the entire NOFO to understand the application requirements in full. HUD will not fund incomplete or ineligible applications. A.

Summary

B. Agency Contact(s)

II. ELIGIBILITY

A. Eligible Applicants

B. Cost Sharing or Matching

III. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

A. Purpose

B. Goals and Objectives

C. Authority

D. Unallowable Costs

E. Indirect Costs

F. Program History

G. Other Information

IV. APPLICATION CONTENTS AND FORMAT

A. Standard Forms, Assurances, and Certifications 18

B. Budget

C. Narratives and Other Attachments

D. Other Application Content

V. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

A. Threshold Review

B. Merit Review

C. Risk Review

D. Selection Process

E. Award Notices

VI. SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND

DEADLINES

A. Deadlines

B. Submission Methods

C. Other Submissions

D. False Statements

VII. POST-AWARD REQUIREMENTS AND

ADMINISTRATION

A. Administrative, National and Departmental Policy

Requirements, and General Terms and Conditions

B. Environmental Requirements

C. Remedies for Noncompliance

D. Reporting

VIII. CONTACT AND SUPPORT

A. Agency Contact

B. Grants.gov

C. SAM.gov

D. Debriefing

E. Applicant Experience Survey

F. Other Online Resources

APPENDIX

Appendix I. Definitions

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Before You Begin FR-6900-N-29R Page 3 of 43

If you believe you are a good candidate for this funding opportunity, register in the appropriate systems now and review the application package. If you are already registered, make sure your registration is active and up-to-date.

SAM.gov Registration You must have an active and up-to-date account with SAM.gov, at the time of application and throughout the life of any award.

To register, go to SAM.gov Entity Registration and click Get Started. From the same page, you can also click on the Entity Registration Checklist for the information you will need to register.

It can take several weeks to register in SAM.gov, so please get started now if you are planning to apply. SAM.gov also provides each organization with a unique entity identifier (UEI). A valid UEI is required to apply for funding.

Grants.gov Registration You must have an active Grants.gov registration. This requires a Login.gov registration as well. See step-by-step instructions at the Grants .gov Quick Start Guide for Applicants. You must apply for funding using Grants.gov, unless HUD has approved your waiver request.

See Section VI.B. Submission Methods.

Find the Application Package Use the Grants Search at Grants.gov and search for opportunity number FR-6900-N-29R .

The application package has all the online forms you need to apply. You also need to access the Download Instructions link and review the content before you apply.

If you have other technical difficulties using Grants.gov, access the Support Center on Grants.gov for assistance.

To get updates on changes to this notice of funding opportunity (NOFO), click Subscribe from the View Grant Opportunity page for this NOFO on Grants.gov.

Application Deadline Applications are due by 11:59:59 p.m. Eastern Time on 07/24/2025.

HUD Listserv If you are interested in email notices about upcoming funding opportunities, subscribe to HUD’s Funding Opportunities listserv.

Note: To help you find what you need, this NOFO uses internal links. In Adobe Reader, you can go back to where you were by pressing Alt + Left Arrow (Windows) or Command + Left Arrow (Mac) on your keyboard.

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

https://sam.gov/ https://sam.gov/content/entity-registration https://sam.gov/ https://sam.gov/ https://grants.gov/ https://login.gov https://www.grants.gov/quick-start-guide/applicants https://grants.gov/ https://grants.gov/ https://Grants.gov https://grants.gov/ https://grants.gov/ https://www.hud.gov/subscribe/signup?listname=HUD%20Funding%20Opportunities&list=HUD-FUNDING-OPPORTUNITIES-L https://www.hud.gov/subscribe/signup?listname=HUD%20Funding%20Opportunities&list=HUD-FUNDING-OPPORTUNITIES-L

I. Basic Information

II. Eligibility III. Program Description

IV. Application Contents and

Format

V. Application Review

Information

VI. Submission Requirements and

Deadlines

VII. Post-Award Requirements and

Administration

VIII. Contact and Support

Appendix

I. BASIC INFORMATION

I. Basic Information

A. Summary

B. Agency Contact(s)

II. Eligibility III. Program Description

IV. Application Contents and

Format

V. Application Review

Information

VI. Submission Requirements and

Deadlines

VII. Post-Award Requirements and

Administration

VIII. Contact and

I. Basic Information FR-6900-N-29R Page 5 of 43

I. BASIC INFORMATION See Contact and Support section of this NOFO.

This NOFO solicits applications for Addressing the Housing Affordability Crisis Research Grant Program. Review the entire NOFO to understand the application requirements in full. HUD will not fund incomplete or ineligible applications. A. Summary Federal Agency Name:

United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) HUD Program Office:

Policy Development and Research Announcement Type:

Initial Program Type:

Discretionary Paperwork Reduction Act Information:

2501-0044 Due Date for Intergovernmental Review:

See Section VI.C.1.

1. NOFO Summary

Key Facts Opportunity Name:

Addressing the Housing Affordability Crisis Research Grant Program Opportunity Number:

FR-6900-N-29R

Federal Assistance Listing:

14.506

Key Dates Application Due Date:

11:59:59 PM Eastern Time on:

07/24/2025 Anticipated Award Date:

09/15/2025 Estimated Performance Period Start Date:

10/01/2025 Estimated Performance Period End Date:

09/30/2028

II. Eligibility III. Program Description

IV. Application Contents and

Format

V. Application Review

Information

VI. Submission Requirements and

Deadlines

VII. Post-Award Requirements and

Administration

VIII. Contact and

I. Basic Information FR-6900-N-29R Page 6 of 43

Addressing the Housing Affordability Crisis Research Grant Program provides competitive awards to eligible applicants, including institutions of higher education, nonprofit, and for-profit institutions. Awards made through this NOFO fund quality research projects that: (1) contribute to knowledge about the housing affordability crisis in the United States; and (2) generate actionable insights and evidence that can inform policy decisions to address the housing affordability crisis in the short-term.

Research projects funded via this NOFO must also contribute to the Program's purpose and Eligible Research Categories.

HUD expects to execute cooperative agreements with eligible applicants selected for awards made under this NOFO. As such, HUD substantial involvement is expected.

HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research (PD&R) will provide the necessary involvement and oversight for the awards.

2. Funding Details Type of Funding Instrument CA (Cooperative Agreement) Available Funds Funding of approximately $10,000,000 is available through this NOFO.

Additional funds may become available for award. Use of these funds is subject to statutory constraints. All awards are subject to the selection process contained in this NOFO.

Funding of approximately $10,000,000 includes fiscal year 2024 funds and fiscal year 2025 funds.

Number of Awards HUD expects to make approximately 10 awards from the funds available under this NOFO.

HUD anticipates making a minimum of 5 and a maximum of 40 awards. The minimum award amount is $250,000 and the maximum award amount is $2,000,000.

Length of Performance Period:

Other Length of Periods Explanation:

You should select a period of performance that aligns with your proposed project. The period of performance will vary by project based on the level of complexity and the proposed methodology. In selecting a period of performance, you should consider activities that typically cause delays, such as data acquisition or collection. The minimum period of performance is 12-months and the maximum period of performance is 36-months.

B. Agency Contact(s) See Contact and Support section of this NOFO.

II. ELIGIBILITY

II. Eligibility

A. Eligible Applicants

B. Cost Sharing or Matching

II. Eligibility III. Program Description

IV. Application Contents and

Format

V. Application Review

Information

VI. Submission Requirements and

Deadlines

VII. Post-Award Requirements and

Administration

VIII. Contact and

II. Eligibility III. Program Description

IV. Application Contents and

Format

V. Application Review

Information

VI. Submission Requirements and

Deadlines

VII. Post-Award Requirements and

Administration

VIII. Contact and

II. Eligibility FR-6900-N-29R Page 8 of 43

II. ELIGIBILITY

You are invited to apply if your organization is an eligible entity type and meets the funding conditions included in the NOFO. HUD will review applications from eligible applicants using the criteria in Section V. of this NOFO.

A. Eligible Applicants

1. Eligible Entity Types:

06 (Public and State controlled institutions of higher education) 12 (Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education) 13 (Nonprofits without 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education) 20 (Private institutions of higher education) 22 (For profit organizations other than small businesses) 23 (Small businesses) Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities (TCCUs) Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian Serving Institutions (ANNH) Additional Information on Eligibility Faith-based organizations may apply on the same basis as any other organization. HUD does not engage in any unlawful and improper conduct, policies, or practices that target faith-based organizations.

Individuals are ineligible applicants.

To confirm your eligibility as an applicant with nonprofit status, HUD will use data from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

2. Restrictions

a. Statutory and Regulatory Requirements Affecting Eligibility You must comply with the current General Statutory and Regulatory Requirements Affecting Eligibility for HUD’s Competitive Programs. HUD will review your eligibility before issuing an award. As part of this review, HUD uses SAM.gov and Department of Treasury data.

b. Application Eligibility Your application is considered for funding if it satisfies the application review requirements in Section V. of this NOFO.

B. Cost Sharing or Matching https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-24/part-5/appendix-Appendix%20A%20to%20Subpart%20A%20of%20Part%205 https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/02/12/2025-02611/eradicating-anti-christian-bias https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/02/12/2025-02611/eradicating-anti-christian-bias https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/02/12/2025-02611/eradicating-anti-christian-bias https://www.hud.gov/stat/cfo/financial-assistance-eligibility-reqs https://www.hud.gov/stat/cfo/financial-assistance-eligibility-reqs https://sam.gov https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/cfo/gmomgmt/grantsinfo/fundingopps/EligibilityRequirements

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II. Eligibility FR-6900-N-29R Page 9 of 43

This Program does not require cost sharing or matching.

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-200/section-200.1#p-200.1(Cost%20sharing%20or%20matching)

III. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

III. Program Description

A. Purpose

B. Goals and Objectives

C. Authority

D. Unallowable Costs

E. Indirect Costs

F. Program History

G. Other Information

II. Eligibility III. Program Description

IV. Application Contents and

Format

V. Application Review

Information

VI. Submission Requirements and

Deadlines

VII. Post-Award Requirements and

Administration

VIII. Contact and

II. Eligibility III. Program Description

IV. Application Contents and

Format

V. Application Review

Information

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Deadlines

VII. Post-Award Requirements and

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III. Program Description FR-6900-N-29R Page 11 of 43

III. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

A. Purpose The purpose of this funding opportunity is to support research projects that will build knowledge and advance policy solutions related to the following five research categories:

• Government-induced Demand and Housing Affordability

• Immigration and Housing Affordability

• The Financialization of Housing and Housing Affordability

• Economic Opportunity Cost and Housing Affordability

• Opportunity Zones The research funded under this opportunity will expand our understanding of the drivers of the housing affordability crisis in the United States and generate actionable insights and evidence that can inform policy decisions at the local, state, and Federal level. HUD/PD&R is particularly interested in projects that will produce initial products, such as summaries of preliminary findings, research briefs, or policy action toolkits, within the first 12 months of the grant in order to influence policy and programs in a timely manner. Research projects may have a maximum period of performance of up to three years, but projects with a period of performance that extends beyond one year should be structured such that there are annual deliverables documenting progress and initial findings.

HUD substantial involvement. HUD expects to execute cooperative agreements with selected applicants under this NOFO. As such, the following examples of HUD substantial involvement is expected:

• Review and final approval of the overall project management plan.

• Review and final approval of the research design, which may include data collection protocols, data collection instruments, and analytic plans.

• Review and approval of any written materials documenting research results.

• Support in identifying available and relevant data assets and facilitating access to select data assets, where feasible.

• Regularly scheduled meetings to discuss project progress.

• Review and approval of any changes in key personnel or employment of any external consultants.

B. Goals and Objectives This funding opportunity will help advance the Executive Order published on January 20, 2025 titled Delivering Emergency Price Relief for American Families and Defeating the Cost-of-Living Crisis, which directs Federal agencies to “pursue appropriate actions to: lower the cost of housing and expand housing supply…” among other goals. Research supported under this funding opportunity will (1) contribute to knowledge about the housing affordability crisis in the United States; and (2) generate actionable insights and evidence that can inform https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/delivering-emergency-price-relief-for-american-families-and-defeating-the-cost-of-living-crisis/#:~:text=I%20hereby%20order%20the%20heads,prosperity%20of%20the%20American%20worker.

https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/delivering-emergency-price-relief-for-american-families-and-defeating-the-cost-of-living-crisis/#:~:text=I%20hereby%20order%20the%20heads,prosperity%20of%20the%20American%20worker.

II. Eligibility III. Program Description

IV. Application Contents and

Format

V. Application Review

Information

VI. Submission Requirements and

Deadlines

VII. Post-Award Requirements and

Administration

VIII. Contact and

III. Program Description FR-6900-N-29R Page 12 of 43 policy decisions to address the housing affordability crisis in the short-term.

Consistent with the Executive Order published on April 23, 2025 titled White House initiative to Promote Excellence and Innovation at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), which establishes as policy that HBCUs obtain “equal opportunities for participation in Federal Programs,” HBCUs are strongly encouraged to apply for these funds.

You should become familiar with all other applicable current and future Executive Orders, a listing of which is found here.

C. Authority This program is authorized by Sections 501 and 502 of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1970 (12 U.S.C. §1701z-1 and §1701z-2) and funding is provided by the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024 (Public Law 118-42, approved March 9, 2024) and the Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025 (Public Law 119-4, approved March 15, 2025).

D. Unallowable Costs Funds may not be used for a doctoral dissertation research grant program. The recipient or subrecipient must not earn or keep any profit. An organization may not evaluate or conduct research of itself. HUD will determine whether the salary rates are reasonable, customary for the skill set provided and the tasks to be conducted, and in accordance with federal legal requirements.

Lease or rental of space for any activities supported through this NOFO is allowed only under the following conditions:

• The lease must be for existing facilities not requiring rehabilitation or construction except for minimal alterations to make the facilities accessible for a person with disabilities;

• No repairs or renovations of the property may be undertaken with funds from this NOFO; and

• Properties in the Coastal Barrier Resources System designated under the Coastal Barrier Resources Act (16 U.S.C. 3501) cannot be leased or rented with federal funds.

E. Indirect Costs If you expect to charge indirect costs to the award, submit the Indirect Cost Rate Certification form (HUD-426) with your application.

F. Program History This is a new funding opportunity.

G. Other Information You should clearly indicate which research category fits your proposed project.

Eligible Research Categories https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/04/white-house-initiative-to-promote-excellence-and-innovation-at-historically-black-colleges-and-universities/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/04/white-house-initiative-to-promote-excellence-and-innovation-at-historically-black-colleges-and-universities/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/executive-orders/ https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/part-200/section-200.1#p-200.1(Indirect%20cost)

II. Eligibility III. Program Description

IV. Application Contents and

Format

V. Application Review

Information

VI. Submission Requirements and

Deadlines

VII. Post-Award Requirements and

Administration

VIII. Contact and

III. Program Description FR-6900-N-29R Page 13 of 43

Research Category 1 – Government-induced Demand and Housing Affordability.

Overarching research questions: What aspects of federal, state, and local government policy are impacting housing demand? To what extent do those policies impact home purchase and the cost to rent a home?

Housing affordability remains at crisis levels despite record federal spending on various types of housing assistance. This research will focus on the key drivers of housing demand, with a particular focus on the role of public policy in driving housing demand. Proposals may cover a range of government-driven demand factors, preferably including, but not limited to:

immigration, loose monetary policy, supply-side and demand-side housing subsidies, federal backing of mortgages, downpayment assistance, the mortgage interest deduction, inclusionary zoning, and benefit programs that disincentivize marriage. Proposals must include a specific focus on quantifying how these policies drive housing demand and thus housing prices, and proposals based on causal experimental evidence are especially preferred. Proposals should seek to determine whether moderating government-driven demand is a more feasible method of addressing the housing affordability crisis than attempting to increase supply, since housing demand is more elastic than housing supply, and may include specific policy recommendations for moderating housing demand as a method of addressing the housing crisis. Outputs from this research may include short-term action plans to remedy any distortions found, as well as policy recommendations for federal, state, and local governments to address the consequences of government policies that drive up housing demand faster than supply can keep up.

Research Category 2 –Immigration and Housing Affordability.

Overarching research question: How has immigration impacted home sales prices and the cost of rent?

Recent years have seen record increases in immigration to the United States. Between 2021 and 2024[1], the foreign-born population of the United States increased by more than 6 million – the largest such increase over such a short period in American history. The foreign-born population now stands at more than 53 million, making up the highest share of the American population since the 1920s[2]. Indications are that this large population influx has caused significant increases in housing demand, and thus likely has resulted in worsening housing affordability. This research category seeks proposals that explore how immigration has impacted home sales prices and the cost of rental housing. Specific areas of interest include, but are not limited to: 1) quantifying the impact of immigration on housing affordability, including both rents and home prices, 2) determining with precision the percentage of HUD rent-assisted households and FHA-insured borrowers that are eligible and ineligible non-citizens, broken down in detail by immigration status, and 3) developing methods for immigration policymaking which incorporate housing policymakers. Outputs from this research may include a policy action toolkit that clearly highlights the impact of immigration on housing affordability and includes solutions.

[1] https://cis.org/Report/ForeignBorn-Population-Grew-51-Million-Last-Two-Years [2] https://www2.census.gov/library/publications/2024/demo/acsbr-019.pdf.

Research Category 3 - The Financialization of Housing and Housing Affordability.

II. Eligibility III. Program Description

IV. Application Contents and

Format

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III. Program Description FR-6900-N-29R Page 14 of 43

Overarching research questions: Who are the investors in housing and how does the treatment of real estate as an investment, and not just as a place people live, impact home sales prices and the cost to rent? How does investor holding of property off market impact housing affordability?

Housing is not just a place to live, but it also serves as a financial asset. Individual and institutional investors account for a significant portion of the real estate market, comprising roughly 25% of total sales[1]. This research category seeks proposals that explore who these investors are and efforts to quantify the causes and impact of withholding such real estate investments from the housing market. Specific areas of interest include, but are not limited to:

1) Analyzing and quantifying the impact of the use of housing and land as a speculative investment, by both individuals and institutions, on housing affordability, 2) Quantifying the prevalence of owner occupancy fraud (i.e., investors posing as owner-occupants) and its impact on housing affordability and availability of mortgage credit, and 3) Quantifying the prevalence of purchases of American land or property by foreign entities or individuals and its impact on housing affordability. Outputs from this research may include a policy action toolkit that provides clear information on the impact, and policy solutions to mitigate any negative impact discovered.

[1] https://www.cotality.com/insights/articles/mom-and-pop-investors-shape-housing-market#:~:text=Share%20this%20article,and%20home%20prices%20remain%20high Research Category 4 –Economic Opportunity Cost and Housing Affordability.

Overarching research question: How has the use of wealth attributable to home equity increased or decreased other economic investments?

The use of one’s home as a primary vehicle for building wealth is an established American practice, backed by public policy through federally subsidized homeownership, including support of mortgage credit markets through federal loan programs, government-sponsored enterprises, and the mortgage interest income tax deduction. There has been limited empirical analysis on the opportunity cost of these policies. Specifically, if Americans spent less on housing, they would have more money available to spend on other productive activities, such as starting one’s own business, furthering one’s education, investing in other assets, or putting that money back into the economy through consumer spending.

Additionally, if credit markets included less preference for mortgages, financing could flow to other sectors that may offer greater social or economic benefit. This research category seeks proposals that can quantify the opportunity cost of federally subsidized homeownership and compare the cost to the benefit. Research proposals may also include an analysis of the impact of 30-year mortgage and explore alternatives which may be more financially advantageous for building wealth.

Research Category 5- Opportunity Zones.

Overarching research question: In what ways are Opportunity Zones (OZ) impacting housing development or economic revitalization in designated tracts?

Opportunity Zones (OZs) are an economic development initiative to encourage investment in low-income areas through the deferral or reduction in taxes on capital gains invested in Qualified Opportunity Zone property. Studies on the initiative have attempted to investigate https://www.cotality.com/insights/articles/mom-and-pop-investors-shape-housing-market#:~:text=Share%20this%20article,and%20home%20prices%20remain%20high https://www.cotality.com/insights/articles/mom-and-pop-investors-shape-housing-market#:~:text=Share%20this%20article,and%20home%20prices%20remain%20high

II. Eligibility III. Program Description

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III. Program Description FR-6900-N-29R Page 15 of 43 the outcomes of Opportunity Zone designation on residential real estate (including transactions, prices, and housing starts), commercial real estate and investments, jobs and establishments, and socioeconomic characteristics of residents, primarily through a difference-in-differences approach comparing Qualified Opportunity Zones and eligible, but undesignated, OZs. HUD is interested in research examining the impacts of Opportunity Zone investments, which can be either direct or indirect impacts, with an understanding that the impacts may not yet be fully realized. This may include descriptive research to better understand Qualified Opportunity Funds and their motivations and goals, and OZ investors and the projects they are investing in. HUD is also interested in understanding which OZs have been targeted for investment and the timing of investments over the ten-year investment period, to inform any future economic development or revitalization policies or programs.

Eligible Activities Eligible activities under this funding opportunity include all research, regulatory, and project management activities that contribute to meeting the objectives with a high degree of quality.

Eligible activities include, but are not limited to:

• All research activities required to complete the proposed project, including: the development of a research design, data collection and analysis plan; outreach and communication efforts related to the execution of the research project; data collection and analysis, including data acquisition; development of written products, such as research briefs/reports or policy toolkits; and the communication of findings to stakeholders.

• Engagement with subject matter experts on any aspect of the project, as needed, to bring expertise to enhance the research team’s knowledge in critical areas.

• Training or capacity-building activities related to project implementation, including attendance at, and/or participation in, relevant conferences.

• Meeting regulatory requirements for research, such as the engagement of an Institutional Review Board to review and approve data collection instruments and the development of Informed Consent materials for study participants, if needed.

• Project management activities, including required project management tools (Opening Meeting, Management and Work Plan and Budget, Quality Control Plan, and Quarterly Progress Reports) and regular communication with HUD staff on all project deliverables.

• Travel, as required, to carry out the project as designed.

• Dissemination of research findings to stakeholders, including attendance at relevant conferences.

Deliverables HUD cooperative agreements require certain activities and deliverables as part of award and project management.

Award management activities and deliverables include:

II. Eligibility III. Program Description

IV. Application Contents and

Format

V. Application Review

Information

VI. Submission Requirements and

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VII. Post-Award Requirements and

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III. Program Description FR-6900-N-29R Page 16 of 43

• Opening Meeting: a meeting with HUD staff to review the terms and conditions of the award.

• Quality Control Plan: a written document that outlines the awardee’s proposed approach to quality control of all research activities and written deliverables to be produced over the period of performance.

• Management & Work Plan: a written document that outlines the expected workflow for the project over the period of performance, providing a project timeline, the allocation of staff and other resources to each task, and a strategy to address any potential challenges to completing the project on time and within budget.

• Quarterly Progress Reports: a narrative summary of accomplishments of the awardee over the prior quarter, discussion of any deviations from the initial schedule of progress, and a summary of how those deviations impact the project and how the Grantee recommends handling the deviation. Documentation of work completed during the prior quarter should align with financial reporting submitted in the same quarter, including any invoices submitted to draw down funding from the award.

• Final Narrative Report: a report documenting the final breakdown of overall award spending over the full period of performance.

Project management activities and deliverables include:

• Research Design: a technical blueprint that outlines how the funded research project will be conducted, including the key research question, a strategy for accessing/collecting any necessary data, proposed analytic methods, and an outline of proposed deliverables.

• Draft and Final Product: the culmination of the overall research effort. The final product generated under the award will be dependent upon the project. Any final written deliverables must be of publication quality and thoroughly describe the research objectives, the methodology, the study limitations, and the findings.

• Final Briefing: a virtual briefing of the study findings for HUD staff at the conclusion of the project.

PD&R’s grants management staff and the Governmental Technical Representative (GTR) for the cooperative agreement will work closely with awardees to further define deliverables during the project. Final work products must be well-written and adhere to plain language principles. The final research report must be of publishable quality and conform to PD&R’s Guidelines on Preparing a Report for Publication. All final work products must be compliant with § 508 of the Rehabilitation Act (29 U.S.C. 794d). HUD anticipates publishing the final research deliverable(s) on our website at www.huduser.gov. Following submission of the final report, PD&R encourages grantees to seek additional outlets for publishing and communicating research findings.

https://www.huduser.gov/About/GTR_Guide.pdf http://www.huduser.gov

IV. APPLICATION CONTENTS AND

FORMAT

IV. Application Contents and Forms

A. Standard Forms, Assurances, and Certifications

B. Budget

C. Narratives and Non-Form Attachments

D. Other Application Content

II. Eligibility III. Program Description

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Format

V. Application Review

Information

VI. Submission Requirements and

Deadlines

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VIII. Contact and

II. Eligibility III. Program Description

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IV. Application Contents and Format FR-6900-N-29R Page 18 of 43

IV. APPLICATION CONTENTS AND FORMAT

Applications must include three main elements: a) standard forms, assurances, and certifications; b) budget; and c) narratives and other attachments. The content, forms, and format for each element are included in this section.

You may use this section as a checklist to ensure you submit a complete application.

If you don’t provide the required documents in the correct format, your application is incomplete.

Do not submit password protected or encrypted files.

35 pages is the total maximum length of all narratives.

Double spaced 12-point Times New Roman font on letter sized paper (8 1/2 x 11 inches) with at least 1-inch margins on all sides.

The total page limit for all materials submitted under “Narratives and Other Attachments” may not exceed 35 pages. See section IV.C. for specific page limits for each narrative and other attachments.

A. Standard Forms, Assurances, and Certifications You must properly complete and submit with your application the standard forms, assurances, and certifications identified below. You can find all forms in the application package or review them and their instructions at Grants.gov Forms. You can also read more about standard forms on HUD’s Funding Opportunities page.

Forms/Assurances/ Certifications Submission Requirement Notes/Description

Application for Federal Assistance (SF-424) Required with application

Page limit: Not applicable File name: SF-424

Applicant and Recipient Assurances and Certifications

(HUD 424-B)

Required with application Page limit: Not applicable File name: HUD-424B

Element Submission Form

Standard Forms, Assurances, and Certifications Upload using each required form.

Budget Use the required budget form.

Narratives and Other Attachments Insert each in the Attachments form.

https://www.grants.gov/forms https://www.hud.gov/sites/dfiles/CFO/images/Standard-Application-Forms.pdf https://www.hud.gov/sites/dfiles/CFO/images/Standard-Application-Forms.pdf

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Forms/Assurances/ Certifications Submission Requirement Notes/Description

Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (SF-LLL)

Required with application, if applicable

Page limit: Not applicable File name: SF-LLL

Certification Regarding Lobbying Required with application

Page limit: Not applicable File Name: Certificate

Applicant/Recipient Disclosure/Update (HUD 2880)

Required with application and after award

Page limit: Not applicable File Name: HUD-2880

B. Budget You must submit with your application the following budget-related information to support your project narrative: 1) the Grant Application Detailed Budget Worksheet (HUD-424-CBW);

2) the Indirect Cost Information Certification (HUD-426); and 3) the budget narrative, as described below in Section IV.C.At a minimum, your budget must indicate direct and any indirect costs.

Budget Form/Document Submission Requirement Notes/Description

Grant Application Detailed Budget Worksheet (HUD-424-

CBW)

Required with the application

Page limit: Not applicable File name: HUD-424CBW Form location: download instructions

Indirect Cost Information Certification (HUD-426)

If applicable, this document is required with the application and after award

Page limit: Not applicable File name: ICR Doc.

Form location: download instructions Additional information: see form and Section III.E.

C. Narratives and Other Attachments If applicable, you must upload narrative and other attachments in Grants.gov using the Attachments Form. When using the Attachments Form, you can upload PDF, Word or Excel formats.

https://grants.gov

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Document Submission Requirement Notes/Description

Project Abstract Required with the application Page limit: 1 File name: Project Abstract Additional information below

Narrative Response to Rating Factors Required with the application

Page limit: 15 pages File name: Project Narrative Additional information below and see Section V.B

Budget Narrative Required with the application Page limit: 3 pages File name: Budget Narrative Additional information below

Resume/Biosketch Appendix Required with the application Page limit: 6 pages File name: Resumes Additional information below

References Appendix Required with the application Page limit: 2 pages File name: References Additional information below

Letters of Commitment Required with the application, if applicable

Page limit: 6 pages File name: Letters Additional information below

Code of Conduct If not included in HUD’s eLibrary, this document is required with the application

Page limit: Not applicable File name: Code Acceptable Content

In addition to the requirements above, the following additional information applies to the “Narratives and Other Attachments.” Take note of the page limit for each item.

• Project Abstract o A plain language description of the overall project, not to exceed 1 page, including the project title, the research category under which the project fits, the key research question(s), the proposed timeline and key deliverables, and the total budget request.

https://www.hud.gov/hud-partners/grants-code-of-conduct https://www.hud.gov/hud-partners/grants-code-of-conduct https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/spm/gmomgmt/grantsinfo/conductgrants

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• Narrative Response to Rating Factors o A statement, not to exceed 15 pages, that addresses each rating factor described in Section V.B.1. of this NOFO.

• Budget Narrative o An explanation, not to exceed 3 pages, of how the requested budget will support the completion of the proposed research project.

• Resume/Biosketch Appendix o Resumes or biosketches for up to 3 key personnel identified in Rating Factor 3

(see Section V.B.1. of the NOFO) may be submitted. Each resume or biosketch must not exceed two pages.

o At a minimum, the appendix must include the resume or biosketch for both the proposed Principal Investigator (PI) and Project Director of the project.

• References Appendix o At least two references from prior funders that could attest to the applicant's performance on any relevant and recent (within five years) research projects.

o The references should include a name and contact information for the funder and a brief summary of the project that is being referenced as a relevant and recent example of prior work.

• Letters of Commitment o If consultants or subcontractors are proposed as key personnel on the project, a letter of commitment from each named individual must be submitted as evidence of their commitment to the project. See Rating Factor 3 of Section V.B.1. of the NOFO.

D. Other Application Content Should HUD offer a lower award amount than you requested, and you choose to accept it, you must submit revised versions of your proposal, budget, and budget narrative, along with a summary of changes, by a deadline set by HUD. HUD will then review these revisions and decide if any further information or changes to the award terms are needed. If you fail to provide the requested information, HUD will not issue the award and may choose another applicant.

V. APPLICATION REVIEW

INFORMATION

V. Application Review Information

A. Threshold Review

B. Merit Review

C. Risk Review

D. Selection Process

E. Award Notices

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V. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

A. Threshold Review HUD reviews each application to make sure it meets the following threshold requirements. If you meet all threshold requirements, your application will advance to a merit review. If you fail to meet one or more threshold requirements, your application is not eligible for HUD funding.

1. Eligible Applicant You must meet the applicant eligibility criteria in this NOFO. Applications from ineligible applicants are not rated or ranked and will not receive HUD funding.

2. Resolution of Civil Rights Matters Applicants with outstanding, unresolved judgments against them for violations of civil rights laws must resolve those judgments before the application submission deadline or the applicant will be deemed ineligible.

a. An applicant is ineligible for funding if the applicant has received notice of a judgment imposed against them for violations of:

1. the Fair Housing Act or a substantially equivalent state or local fair housing law for discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or familial status; or

2. Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Section 109 of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, the Americans with Disabilities Act, or the Violence Against Women Act or substantially equivalent state or local laws.

b. HUD will determine if actions to resolve the judgment taken before the application deadline date will resolve the matter. Examples of actions that may be sufficient to resolve the matter include, but are not limited to:

1. Current compliance with a voluntary compliance agreement signed by all the parties;

2. Current compliance with a HUD-approved conciliation agreement signed by all the parties;

3. Current compliance with a conciliation agreement signed by all the parties and approved by the state governmental or local administrative agency with jurisdiction over the matter;

4. Current compliance with a consent order or consent decree; or

5. Current compliance with a final judicial ruling or administrative ruling or decision.

3. Timely Submission of Applications Late applications are not eligible for funding. See deadlines in Section VI of this NOFO.

4. Requested Funding Level.

Applicants seeking an award amount that is below the minimum award amount ($250,000) or

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B. Merit Review HUD expects to evaluate and score your application using the following merit criteria and process.

Merit reviewers evaluate and score all applications that pass the threshold review. Merit reviewers may include Federal and non-Federal persons. Reviewers receive a copy of your application to evaluate and score each application separately.

Merit Review Summary

The maximum number of points that can be awarded to any proposal is 100. No preference points are available under this NOFO. The minimum score for an application to be considered for funding is 70 points. Your research project proposal must include a response to each of the following five rating factors detailed below.

1. Rating Factors Your application must include a response to the following criteria.

Rating Factors Details

Criterion Total number of points = 100 Rating Factor 1: Contribution of the Proposed Research 20 points

Rating Factor 2: Soundness of Approach 30 points Rating Factor 3: Capacity of the Team 20 points Rating Factor 4: Project Management 20 points Rating Factor 5: Budget Reasonableness 10 points Total 100 points

Criterion Max points = 100

Rating Factor 1: Contribution of the Proposed Research 20 max points

The proposed research project must align with one of the five research categories specified under the section titled Eligible Research Categories in Section III.G of this NOFO. The narrative must clearly articulate a research question, or questions, that will be the focus of the research effort. The proposal must describe the importance of the proposed research and its potential to address an identified issue, challenge, or gap in the existing body of knowledge in the relevant topic area. The narrative should describe the potential for the research to generate benefits beyond the immediate scope of the project and should explain how the findings could support broader applications, contribute to policy or program design, or enhance policy or program implementation strategies. The applicant should describe how the research will advance understanding of, or the effectiveness of, Federal, state, and/or local policies and programs. For projects that will extend beyond a 12-month period of performance, applicants must describe how the proposed research could be translated into practice within the first year, and what interim deliverables, such as summaries of preliminary findings, research briefs, or policy action toolkits, would be produced in order to influence

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Rating Factor 2: Soundness of Approach 30 max points

The narrative must describe the methodology the research team proposes to use to answer the identified research question(s). The narrative should provide:

• A clear connection between the research question and the data proposed to be collected or analyzed to address the research question.

• A description of the proposed research methods. The applicant should clearly explain and justify the specific methods proposed, including a description of the data sources to be accessed or collected, an assessment of the limitations of any secondary data sources to be accessed, and a description of how the proposed data source is appropriate for answering the research questions.

• An analysis plan that is methodologically reasonable and appropriate for the data being collected and the research question(s) being addressed.

• If applicable to the proposed methodology, a description of how the research team intends to collect and manage sensitive data from individuals while protecting privacy and complying with all relevant rules and regulations related to the protection of the rights and welfare of human research subjects.

• An approach for presenting the results of the study in a comprehensive, impactful, and timely way. The approach should describe the deliverables or products to be produced over the course of the research effort.

Rating Factor 3: Capacity of the Research Team

20 max points

The narrative must describe the project staffing anticipated for the proposed project.

Applicants will be evaluated based on the extent to which the project staffing demonstrates relevant experience for the proposed project and the ability to carry out the required tasks.

Staff assigned to different tasks should have the relevant skills and abilities to fulfill the tasks they will perform. Key personnel are defined as up to three individuals who will have primary responsibility related to managing or carrying out the proposed work. The key personnel must be identified in the proposal and must include, at a minimum, the Principal Investigator and Project Director. Key personnel may be in-house staff, sub-recipients, and/or consultants for whom a contract or agreement already exists. If consultants or subcontractors are proposed as key personnel, a letter of commitment from the named individual must be submitted as evidence of their commitment to the project. Letters of commitment will not be counted towards the 15-page narrative page limit.

To demonstrate the capacity of the research team, each research project proposal must include an appendix with resumes or biosketches (each with a 2-page maximum) for up to three key personnel identified in the proposal. Additionally, the applicant must submit a separate appendix containing at least two references from funders who could attest to the

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3. Other Factors Your application must respond to the following other additional criteria.

a. Budget The panel will review but not approve the budget. The panel will assess whether the budget aligns with planned program activities and objectives.